DiAnne Catherine (Birkhoff) Ferguson

DiAnne Catherine Ferguson age 80 passed away peacefully at home on December 29, 2025 in Roanoke VA. Born on January 7,1945 in Passaic NJ, DiAnne lived a life rooted in faith, family, and love. She was the beloved daughter of Cornelius and Anna Birkhoff and the devoted wife of Reverend Vern Ferguson for almost 50 years until his passing. Together they built a life centered around their shared values faith in Christ, and their deep commitment to one another. DiAnne is lovingly remembered by her children Cathy Ferguson of Roanoke, Vern Ferguson and husband William Dudley of Blacksburg, Charlotte Clark of Roanoke, and Stephanie Mauk and her husband Brian in Taylor, Texas. Her legacy continues through her cherished granddaughters Samantha Mauk of Taylor Texas, Amanda Clark of Roanoke, and Allison Pissanos and her husband Tyler, of Roanoke.

A woman of unwavering Christian faith, DiAnne served faithfully in many roles including Sunday school teacher, nursery worker, vacation Bible school volunteer, choir director, and as a minister's wife. Most recently she was a dedicated member of North Roanoke Baptist Church. Even after her health started to decline and she was no longer able to attend in person, she watched faithfully online. Throughout her life her devotion to her church community was a reflection of her dear deep spiritual foundation that guided her life.

DiAnne found joy in the simple pleasures of home and tradition. She had a passion for crocheting and cross stitch crafts that allowed her to create beauty with care and patience. Her kitchen was often filled with the comforting aromas of baked goods. She especially delighted in preparing Swedish cinnamon bread and Swedish almond cake. Recipes that honored her proud Swedish heritage. She loved talking about her heritage and her loving family. Her connection to her extended family in Sweden remained strong throughout her life and she longed to visit them again.

Above all else DiAnne loved her family deeply. She treasured time spent with her children and grandchildren. She also held dear treasured friendships that enriched her life. Among those closest to her were special friends that were like children to her, Crystal and David Lakey, as well as Debbie Pendleton, Denis Looney, and Catherine

Harding. Friends whose companionship brought warmth and joy through the years. DiAnne’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her as a woman of grace, strength, faith, and enduring love. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.

Thank you to the Carilion Hospice team for the exceptional care and compassion they provided during her illness. In lieu of flowers please make donations to North Roanoke Baptist Church in her memory. The family will welcome friends at Blue Ridge Funeral Home on January 5, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow at 3:00 p.m. at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens.